Tropical Storm Milton Strengthens, Expected to Become Major Hurricane
Tropical Storm Milton is continuing to gain strength in the Gulf of Mexico and is expected to become a hurricane later on Sunday as the storm takes aim at Florida’s west coast. Forecasters say that future Hurricane Milton could become a major hurricane (Category 3 or higher) before landfall.
The National Hurricane Center has indicated that the storm is likely to “rapidly strengthen as it progresses toward the Gulf of Mexico and could reach major hurricane status upon nearing the west coast of the Florida Peninsula by mid-week.” They noted, “The critical question is how fast and to what extent the storm will strengthen.” Milton is anticipated to make landfall in Florida with winds reaching up to 115 mph, categorizing it as a potential Category 3 hurricane.
Florida residents are being advised to prepare for the impending storm, with Governor Ron DeSantis declaring a state of emergency for 35 counties on Saturday. The storm could hinder recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene, which made landfall on September 26 as a Category 4 storm, leaving a trail of destruction spanning 500 miles with severe flooding and damaging winds.
Residents in the affected areas are urged to ensure they have a hurricane plan in place, follow the advice of local officials, and check back for forecast updates. Heavy rain is possible in the region starting Sunday into Monday, with more rain and heavy winds expected on Wednesday. Hurricane and storm surge watches are expected to be issued for portions of the Florida coastline by Sunday.
